Sr. Battery Test Technician, Mechanical

Rivian•Normal, IL

4d•Onsite

About The Position

Are you passionate about the future of electric mobility and the rigorous validation of high-performance energy storage systems? We are seeking a highly skilled and safety-focused Mechanical Test Technician to join our team in Normal, IL. In this role, you will be instrumental in executing complex shock and vibration testing for our Li-ion battery modules and packs, ensuring they meet the highest standards of durability and performance. You will play a critical role in our development process, working hands-on with cutting-edge testing equipment and collaborating closely with engineering teams to push the boundaries of what is possible in battery technology.

Requirements

2-year technical degree in mechanical technology field
Minimum 5 years automotive or battery experience in related field
Demonstrated knowledge of automated battery test equipment and test methods preferred
A wide range of experience with automotive test tools such as Vector CANoe/CANape, Tracetronic ECU-Test, Vehicle SPI required
Expertise in data acquisition and instrumentation (e.g., accelerometers, strain gauges, thermocouples).
Proficiency with mechanical CAD software for fixture design - Optional
Strong understanding of high voltage safety standards and procedures.
Familiarity with DFSS or DRM tools (such as VOC, FMEA, 5-Why, 8-D) preferred
High energy and self-motivated
Strong interpersonal skills. Ability to work effectively in a team-oriented environment.
Strong technical communication skills (written and verbal)
Strong mechanical ability.
~10% Domestic and/or International Travel

Nice To Haves

Demonstrated knowledge of automated battery test equipment and test methods preferred
Familiarity with DFSS or DRM tools (such as VOC, FMEA, 5-Why, 8-D) preferred
Proficiency with mechanical CAD software for fixture design - Optional

Responsibilities

Execute complex mechanical shock and vibration test profiles for Li-ion battery modules and packs, ensuring strict adherence to test plans and safety protocols.
Experience with EDM Shakers, vibration controllers such as Crystal Instruments, VibrationView, DPS.
Support facility startup operations for commissioning and integration of battery test systems
Support characterization of control system behaviors
Ability to follow detailed drawings and test procedures and execute tasks at a high level of detail and quality
Support development of detailed test outlines and methods
Clean and organized worker to maintain overall shop cleanliness and organization
Work toward achievement of program test schedule
Automate tests for application to Rivian battery packs where applicable
Support test engineering team with drawing and specification reviews
Support failure analysis activities during development and throughout production programs
Speak up for safety issues and read across activities for actions and closures
Provide feedback related to battery failure modes discovered in testing to Development/Validation Engineers, Design Engineers
Support technical root cause analysis and resolution of issues found during testing
Document all test observations and collect required data
Collaborate with test engineers to troubleshoot hardware integration, sensor signal, and connection issues in real-time.
Support design and modify fixtures and instrumentation for battery testing
Design and fabricate custom mechanical test fixtures and instrumentation setups to accommodate unique testing requirements.
Support design reviews for Product Development & Change Management, Key Stakeholder Reviews, Component Technical Reviews and Supplier Technical Reviews